“I’m feeling good ahead of the tournament. I think we [Switzerland] can go further than a lot of people think.” Shaqiri told Goal. “Two small teams have won before, Greece in 2004 and Denmark before that. I’m not saying we’ll win, but I don’t think we should be written off.”

Switzerland are grouped with hosts France, with Romania and Albania completing Group A. “It’s a tough group with France, who are, of course, favourites, but I think we’ll get out of the group and hopefully the momentum will take us on further,” the 24-year old former Bayern Munich winger added.

Shaqiri joined Stoke last summer from Inter Milan, and while he admitted that his focus was on the European championships, he said he would be better prepared for the Premier League next season.

“I’ve enjoyed English football and it’s prepared me well for this summer,” he explained. “But I think I’ll have adjusted better to the League by next season. However, for now, I’m focused on performing for my country. We have some good players and if we all do what we are able to, we will do well.”